As part of the Network of Change programme, running from 2023 to 2026, three Youth Hubs have been established in Ranya, Halabja, and Chamchamal in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Funded by the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign Affairs (NLMFA) and in partnership with the Sparda Organisation, these hubs are designed as spaces for vocational training, collaborative activities, and idea exchange among young people. They are also open to other organisations working on youth development, creating a collaborative environment to empower the next generation.

The primary purpose of these Youth Hubs is to provide a space for campaigners to carry out their activities and implement the campaign’s goals. The hubs aim to serve 1,000 young people across the three locations through capacity-building and vocational training sessions. By offering accessible resources and support, the hubs seek to enhance the skills and opportunities available to local youth.

The Youth Hubs are operated in partnership between SPARK and the Sparda Organisation. In recent months, campaigners from three regions have utilised these hubs, with youth activists successfully completing the first campaign titled “Don’t Go, Fix It”.

Sahan, a youth activist from Ranya, Sulaymaniyah, shared her experience after attending a digital marketing vocational training session at the Ranya hub. She expressed excitement about her newfound ability to market and sell products online. Sahan’s story highlights how local resources can drive significant personal and professional growth, enabling young people to tap into their potential and succeed in the digital marketplace.

Similarly, Mandela, the Youth Hub Officer in Halabja, emphasised the broader goals of these hubs, which aim to reach 1,000 young people across all three locations. He highlighted workshops such as one focused on creating professional CVs using Canva and AI tools, equipping participants with crucial skills for navigating the job market. These sessions not only enhance employability but also prepare young people for future career opportunities.

In Chamchamal, Zanyar, the Youth Hub Officer, outlined the successful delivery of three training sessions by the campaigners, reaching 80 young people, alongside an additional session for 27 teachers from Sheikh Raza and Kurmanj High Schools in Chamchamal District. These initiatives demonstrate the hubs’ strong commitment to improving the skills of both students and educators, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development within the community.

The Youth Hubs are more than just training centres; they offer vital spaces where young people can discover and develop their potential. By facilitating skill-building and professional growth, these hubs play a crucial role in helping youth build promising futures and contribute positively to their communities. Through the Network of change programme campaigns, the establishment of youth hubs marks a significant step in empowering the youth of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, paving the way for a brighter future for all.